Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has successfully developed the country’s lightest bullet proof vest (Melanki). The jacket, which can withstand up to the highest thrust level six, has been developed by the Defense Materials and Supplies Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE), Kanpur. A novel material is used in the jacket which is made in a new design.
According to DRDO, the new vest is the lightest available in the country and is designed to fire the 7.62 x 54R API ammunition. DRDO launched the vest after the successful trial at Chandigarh.The hard armor panel on the front of the jacket can withstand up to six sniper rounds. The hard armor panel is made of monolithic ceramic plate. Polymer is also used behind the armor panel for ease of wearing and comfort during operation.
